Communism vs. Capitalism Part 1

Ms. Hoffman visited many countries in central Europe. One thing she learned was that the counties that she visited are very young. They are young because they completely changed their governments and economies. Two weeks ago, she asked you what an economy was. Did you figure it out?

In the USA, we have a mostly Capitalist or Market Economy.

In many of the countries that Ms. Hoffman visited, they have the same kind of economy now, but not too long ago, they had a different kind. It was called Communism.

Have you heard of Communism? This is a different kind of government and economic system. To help you understand, answer the questions below. Check back here next week to understand how the answers to these questions would be different in a Communism System!

In the USA...
1. Can you own something? Like a car or house?

2. How do you earn money?

3. Who decides what you do with your money?

4. Who decides how much things at the store cost?

5. Can you change jobs when you want to?

6. Can you move to another city or state if you want to?

7. Can you travel to another country?

8. When you go to the doctor, who pays for it?

9. Does everyone have to have a job?

10. Is everyone equal?